Overview
The Dreame H12 Pro FlexReach is designed to make floor cleaning a breeze. However, it’s essential to note that it doesn’t completely replace a traditional mop or upright vacuum.
While the self-cleaning feature is impressive, it does come with some noise and can take a fair amount of time. Additionally, the vacuum’s non-replaceable battery and pricey cleaning solution leave something to be desired.
Having spent a few weeks testing the Dreame H12 Pro FlexReach, I can confidently say it’s a handy addition to my cleaning routine. Although it won’t replace a conventional upright vacuum or mop, it excels at tackling quick cleanups and makes my weekly chores much easier.
For clarity, I’ll refer to it as a "vacuum" since that’s how Dreame markets it. However, it’s worth noting that this model doesn’t work on carpets and functions more like a motorized mop with adequate suction capabilities.
Specifications:
- Weight: 11 lbs (empty)
- Collection Capacity: 700 ml
- Wattage: 400w
- Suction Power: 18,000 Pa
- Runtime: 30-35 minutes (up to 50 minutes in Quiet Mode)
- Charging Time: 4 hours
Cleaning Performance
The Dreame H12 Pro FlexReach combines mopping and vacuuming to provide effective cleaning for hard floors. While it performs well overall, there are some notable downsides.
Pros:
- Sleek and modern design
- Efficient self-cleaning feature
- Can lie flat for hard-to-reach areas
- Equipped with a hair detangler to prevent tangles
Cons:
- Non-replaceable battery with a limited lifespan
- Expensive cleaning solution
- Intense self-propulsion feature
- Relatively small water tanks
Price and Availability
You can find the Dreame H12 Pro FlexReach at major retailers like Amazon and Walmart, as well as the Dreame website. Although the retail price hovers around $550, it frequently goes on sale, usually between $320 and $450.
Build Quality and Design
Dreame has crafted a fairly sleek design for its vacuum, moving away from the bulky plastic styles common with brands like Bissell and Shark. While I appreciate the premium feel of the H12 Pro FlexReach, I wish it were lighter in color, as the black material tends to showcase dust and pet hair.
The construction quality is generally solid, with tightly fitting components and a secure brush roller. However, the dirty water tank can feel flimsy and may require extra care during disassembly.
One handy feature is a small ball that allows the vacuum to easily slide under low furniture. The design also slightly tilts forward when placed on its charging stand, making it easier to remove the clean water tank during self-clean cycles.
Functionality and Modes
The H12 Pro FlexReach features four cleaning modes: Automatic, Ultra, Suction-Only, and Quiet. Switching between these modes is easy, and the display indicates your current mode, along with battery life.
I primarily used the Automatic mode, which adjusts suction power based on the mess. The Ultra mode is powerful but consumes battery quickly, while Suction-Only isn’t particularly useful since the mop head is still activated during this mode.
One downside is that the vacuum announces mode changes in a loud voice, which can be distracting, especially during Quiet mode.
Cleaning Solution Cost
Included with the vacuum is a small bottle (16.9 oz) of cleaning solution. While you only need a small amount per refill, the limited tank size means I often have to fill it multiple times during cleaning. At around $17 per bottle, it can get costly for larger homes.
Each bottle offers about 16-17 sessions at my usage rate, which highlights the potential for quick depletion, especially for those with more extensive hard floors.
Final Thoughts
In my view, every home should have a traditional vacuum, mop, and broom. While robotic vacuums and hybrids like the H12 Pro FlexReach offer advantages for quick cleanups, they can’t fully replace manual cleaning.
For those with hard floors, this product makes cleaning swift and easy, particularly if you prefer lighter cleaning sessions. It handles minor stains well, with decent suction power and self-cleaning capabilities.
Besides some user complaints regarding streaks, it generally performs admirably if used correctly. I did find it adept at managing pet hair, thanks to the detangler feature.
However, be cautious of the self-propulsion, which can feel a bit aggressive, potentially leading to difficulties in tight spaces.
Overall, the Dreame H12 Pro FlexReach is a solid tool for maintaining a clean home, but if you don’t own a reliable upright vacuum or mop already, those should be your first priority before considering this model.
